Written answers

Tuesday, 24 May 2016

Photo of Louise O'ReillyLouise O'Reilly (Dublin Fingal, Sinn Fein)
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495. To ask the Minister for Health the action he will take to act on the recommendations of the published National Ambulance Service emergency service baseline and capacity review; when he will meet relevant stakeholders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11729/16]

Photo of Simon HarrisSimon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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The National Ambulance Service Capacity Review makes it clear that we need a very significant programme of investment in our ambulance services. In that context, a phased investment in a multi annual programme involving manpower, vehicles and technology is required. The Deputy may wish to note that additional funding of €7.2m has been provided for the National Ambulance Service in 2016 which includes €2m for new developments. The Deputy will also be aware that the Programme for Government commits to additional annual investment in terms of ambulance personnel and vehicles.

The National Ambulance Service has now published an action plan, which incorporates the recommendations of both the HIQA and the Capacity Review. My Department engages on an ongoing basis with the National Ambulance Service in relation to service requirements and performance and will continue to do so to ensure that the action plan is implemented.

It should be noted that many of the key recommendations of both reviews are already being addressed as part of a significant programme of reform and modernisation of the NAS which has been underway in recent years.

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